Understanding the Recent Property Tax Rate Increase in Harris County

Property taxes are a difficult but necessary part of being a homeowner. While property taxes are a costly expense, those taxes go into supporting and maintaining the infrastructure of local communities. When a county increases taxes, there are rules to follow and limits to the increases that can occur. However, like the situation we just saw in Harris County, natural disasters and extreme circumstances can lead to larger increases in taxes than prescribed by law. Read on to learn more about the recent property tax rate increase in Harris County and how it could affect you.

How Much Are My Taxes Increasing?

The new law only affects those who own property in Harris County. For those who live in Harris County, changes to multiple property tax rates will account in a 15% increase in the average homeowner’s tax bill in the coming year for their county taxes. If voters approve the new proposed flood control measure, that increase will go up to 19%.

So for homeowners that own a home valued at $400,000, a 15% property tax increase would account in an extra $256 being added to their tax bill this year. If the flood control measure gets approved, that would add an additional $60 to the above property tax bill with a total increase of $316.

What Happened to the 3.5% Limit?

This past year brought Houston and surrounding areas a record number of natural disasters including floods and hurricanes that led to expensive clean-up costs throughout the county. While there is a cap of 3.5% each year on property tax increases, in times of natural disasters the county can seek to increase the rate to 8% or more depending on specific conditions. The general fund was increased by 10% and taxes for the Harris Health system and the Port of Houston also increased with approval from the County Commissioner. The Harris County Flood Control District is the last set of increases, pending voter approval.

Options For Homeowners

With a nearly 19% increase in property taxes, homeowners in Harris County should reevaluate their budgets and look at additional tax relief options like the Homestead Exemption to ensure the raise in taxes doesn’t cause them to become delinquent in the coming year.

Johnson & Starr Is Here To Help

If you’ve received your tax bill and don’t understand the increases, or are already delinquent and are looking for relief, Johnson & Starr can help. Call one of our experts to see if a property tax loan could solve your issues today.